New hope in Nepal

NEPAL has taken some unprecedented steps to recover from the recent upheavals in the country since King Gyanendra gave in to popular demands and withdrew himself to his Narayanhiti Palace.

Published: Wed 21 Jun 2006, 10:14 AM

Last updated: Sat 4 Apr 2015, 5:14 PM

But nothing matches, in import and impact, the peace agreement signed by the government of Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala and the Maoist rebels. The deal that will lead to the Maoists joining a new interim government, fresh elections and a new constitution may be the best chance for Nepal in decades. It could not only end the current political impasse in the Himalayan kingdom, it means lasting peace and stability for the country and a better future for its people.

Since the Maoists have been the single major source of political unrest and instability in Nepal for the past 10 years or so, their joining the national mainstream would bring peace to the country and stabilise its political institutions. However, it would be unwise to conclude the Maoists would abandon their struggle or political agenda. They will continue to insist on abolition of monarchy and declaring Nepal a socialist republic whereas majority of the people in the country are said to be in favour of a ceremonial monarchy. The debate will surely continue for a long time to come.

Finally, what really matters is what people want. Ultimately, people’s will should prevail and only they should determine their destiny. That’s what democracy is all about.